The Steelers will be without their defensive anchor once again this week, as T.J. Watt has officially been ruled out for Sunday’s matchup against the Lions. Watt is still recovering from a procedure to repair a lung injury and didn’t log a single practice rep this week - not a surprise, but certainly a tough blow for a Pittsburgh defense that leans heavily on his disruptive presence.
Through 13 games this season, Watt has been every bit the game-wrecker we’ve come to expect. With 7.0 sacks, 10 tackles for loss, 18 quarterback hits, and even an interception to his name, he’s been the heartbeat of this Steelers front seven. His absence creates a significant void - not just in pass rush production, but in leadership and edge-setting toughness that doesn’t always show up on the stat sheet.
And Watt isn’t the only starter the Steelers will be missing. Cornerback James Pierre (calf) and guard Isaac Seumalo (triceps) have also been ruled out after missing the entire week of practice. Seumalo’s absence, in particular, could test the Steelers’ interior protection against a Lions defense that’s been aggressive up front all season.
Linebacker Nick Herbig is listed as doubtful after being limited in Friday’s session with a hamstring injury. Herbig has shown flashes as a rotational pass rusher, so if he can’t go, the Steelers may need to lean even more on their depth at outside linebacker - a group that’s already under pressure with Watt sidelined.
There’s a bit more optimism around long snapper Christian Kuntz, who’s questionable with a knee issue after participating in back-to-back limited practices. Special teams continuity is often overlooked, but a shaky snap at the wrong moment can swing a game - especially in what’s expected to be a tight, physical contest.
On the positive side, several key contributors have been cleared to play. Center Zach Frazier, who popped up on the injury report Thursday with a triceps issue, was back in a limited capacity Friday and is expected to suit up. That’s a big relief for a Steelers offensive line that’s already dealing with Seumalo’s absence.
Wide receiver Ben Skowronek (illness/hand), safety Jabrill Peppers (illness), offensive lineman Andrus Peat (concussion), and defensive tackles Keeanu Benton (ankle) and Derrick Harmon (knee) have all been removed from the injury report and are good to go for Sunday.
The Steelers head into this one banged up, especially on defense, but they’ve shown resilience all season. With Watt out, it’s time for the rest of the front seven - including players like Alex Highsmith and Benton - to step up and bring the heat. The Lions bring a balanced, physical offense to the table, and Pittsburgh’s margin for error just got a little thinner.